KTT Kang White vs. KTT Matcha
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the KTT Matcha switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Kang White and the KTT Matcha are two popular choices that offer unique typing experiences. The Kang White is a linear switch, best known for its exquisite representation of a poppy linear switch and a dazzling typing sound. With its self-lubricating material, this switch provides unparalleled smoothness while typing. Categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral', the Kang White offers a comfortable and consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Matcha is a tactile switch that stands out for its comfortable and snappy tactility. Typing on the Matcha switch gives a distinctly clean bottom-out sound, thanks to its long pole stem. Categorized as 'Stepped', 'Snappy', 'Accented', 'Clacky', 'Feathery', and 'Subtle', the Matcha switch offers a unique and satisfying keystroke experience. Each switch has its own merits and appeals to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Kang White and KTT Matcha switches share many similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, a relatively stiffer plastic, enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. This common feature ensures that users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using both the Kang White and Matcha switches.
However, the difference arises when comparing the bottom housings of the two switches. The Kang White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. The nylon material is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Matcha switch employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning with the sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile characteristic of polycarbonate material. This difference in bottom housing material will have a noticeable impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches.
When pressing down on the Kang White switch, the softer nylon bottom housing will contribute to a deeper and more muffled bottom-out sound and a relatively softer feel upon keypress. Conversely, the Matcha switch's polycarbonate bottom housing will result in a sharper and more pronounced bottom-out sound, along with a slightly firmer keypress feel. In contrast, the top housing of both switches will have a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Overall, although both switches share a polycarbonate top housing, the contrasting bottom housings provide different tactile and auditory experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Kang White has an actuation force of 45 grams, which means that it requires a slightly stronger push to initiate a keystroke compared to the Matcha's actuation force of 40 grams. This makes the Matcha switch slightly lighter in terms of actuation force.
In terms of bottom out force, the Kang White requires 58 grams to fully press down, while the Matcha requires 45 grams. This indicates that the Kang White has a heavier bottom out force compared to the Matcha. Therefore, if someone prefers a keyboard with a strong and substantial typing experience, they might prefer the Kang White due to its heavier bottom out force.
On the other hand, those who enjoy a lighter typing experience may prefer the Matcha switch, as its lighter actuation and bottom out forces of 40 grams and 45 grams respectively provide a more effortless keystroke.
Overall, the Kang White can be considered slightly heavier in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Matcha switch. However, it is worth noting that both switches fall into the medium range for actuation and bottom out forces, so users can expect relatively similar results in terms of typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Kang White linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying feel when typing or gaming. It is worth mentioning that while their travel distances are the same, the Kang White is a linear switch while the Matcha is a tactile switch. This means that the Kang White will provide a smooth and uninterrupted keypress, while the Matcha will offer a slight tactile feedback, providing a more pronounced feel when the keypress is registered. So, while the travel distance is the same, the typing experience may differ slightly between the two switches based on the user's preference for a linear or tactile feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
The KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
The KTT Kang White linear switch is best known for its exquisite representation of a poppy linear switch, resulting in a dazzling typing sound. The low-pitched sound profile of the Kang White provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in any environment. The self-lubricating material used in these switches enhances the smoothness of typing, adding to the overall pleasant sound experience. However, it's important to note that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
On the other hand, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is well-regarded for delivering a comfortable and snappy tactility while typing. This switch offers a distinct clean bottom-out sound, thanks to its long pole stem. The Matcha switch falls under the category of clacky switches, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The crisp, bright, and percussive sound profile adds to the overall satisfying typing experience. Again, it is important to consider that sound can also be influenced by the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, there is no provided information about the subjective qualities of the Kang White switch. However, the Matcha switch is described as a stepped switch that offers a mild tactile feel with some pre-travel and post-travel. It is also characterized as snappy, providing a super responsive typing experience. The Matcha switch can be considered accented, providing a notable amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, the Matcha switch offers a feathery typing experience with light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for prolonged typing sessions. The switch is also described as having a subtle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel without a resonant sound signature, thereby making it suitable for shared spaces.
Overall, the KTT Kang White linear switch and the KTT Matcha tactile switch offer distinctive subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Kang White provides a low-pitched sound profile with unparalleled smoothness, while the Matcha offers a clacky sound profile with comfortable and snappy tactility. However, it's important to consider that the ultimate typing experience is influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Whether you prefer a smooth and mellow typing experience or a snappy and tactile one, both switches provide their own unique characteristics. As these switches are different, you can expect different results from each, but if you are looking for a similar typing experience, both switches offer options that cater to your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile, the KTT Kang White linear switch would be a great choice. These switches provide a dazzling typing sound and offer unparalleled smoothness due to their self-lubricating material. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a clacky sound profile, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is the way to go. These switches offer a comfortable, snappy tactility and a distinctly clean bottom-out sound. Additionally, they have a stepped feel, which means they provide a mild tactile sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
Mentioned in this article
